Members of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees rallied on Sept. 6 after being locked out by the Town of Coaldale. The union has now presented new contract proposals. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

update: statement from mayor

AUPE makes new offer as Town of Coaldale lockout nears one month

Oct 3, 2025 | 3:18 PM

UPDATE (Mon, Oct. 6): Coaldale Mayor Jack Van Rijn has provided a brief statement to LNN regarding AUPE’s new offer.

He says the counteroffer will be added to the agenda for the Town of Coaldale’s regular council meeting on Monday, Oct. 6.

The matter will be discussed in a closed session, in accordance with the Municipal Government Act.

Original Story:

Unionized employees at the Town of Coaldale are hoping to put an end to the lockout.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) says it has presented new proposals to the municipality. LNN has inquired about the specifics of the offers, and we are awaiting a response.

Tensions have been high between the two sides for much of this year as they have not been able to come to a new collective agreement for the 43 permanent staff.

The Town of Coaldale locked those employees out of their worksites on September 6, 2025.

AUPE Vice-President Curtis Jackson says workers have “bravely” walked the picket line for nearly one month, and have been unable to provide essential services to the community.

“This lockout has put immense pressure on the community and our members,” says Jackson. “Our members just want to do their jobs and help their fellow Coaldale residents, but they also deserve a fair contract that reflects the essential work they do.”

As the municipal election nears, Jackson believes that the incumbent mayor and councillors would likely wish to resolve the lockout quickly.

“Town of Coaldale staff want a fair contract and fair treatment,” he says. “We hope the Mayor and Council will move quickly to accept the Union’s proposal or counter with an offer that both parties can ratify and end the lock out.”